Nigeria’s under-23 handball team delivered an outstanding second-half performance to defeat Azerbaijan 29-17 on Day 2 of the 5th IHF Emerging Nations Championship in Varna, Bulgaria.
Coach Solomon Yola’s team, who were looking to bounce back after a 31-31 draw against the United States on the opening day, came prepared and displayed excellent teamwork and resilience.
Despite starting the match with a solid 4-1 lead, Nigeria struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, finishing narrowly ahead 9-8. However, the second half proved to be a different story. Azerbaijan initially took the lead, but their turnover errors were quickly exploited by Nigeria.
The African team went on an impressive 13:1 run, taking full advantage of Azerbaijan’s mistakes and capitalizing on fast breaks. During this stretch, Nigeria also recorded two significant runs, with a 6:0 and 7:0 unanswered streak between the 32nd and 45th minutes of the match.
The goals came from all corners of the Nigerian team, with Faruk Yusuf, Solomon Yusuf, and Kareem Ajibike leading the charge. By the 10-minute mark of the second half, Nigeria had already equaled their first-half goal tally, showing their dominance and determination to secure the win.
The final whistle blew with Nigeria firmly in control, sealing a 29-17 victory. John Shagari, who was named the man of the match, scored seven goals, while Kareem Ajibike and Faruk Yusuf each added six goals to the tally.
With this result, Nigeria are now second in their group standings, trailing the United States, who top the group with a +16 goal difference compared to Nigeria’s +12.
To top the group, Nigeria will need a bigger victory than the USA in their final match of the preliminary round against the Republic of Moldova. Azerbaijan, who were defeated by Nigeria, will face the USA in their final group match.
